Date: June 19, 2000 

To: Dr. Dan Edie 

From:  Julianna Camacho 

 Jonathan O’Dwyer 
Nathan Smith 
Brenteria Travis

Subj: Discrete Numerical Modeling of Flow through Porous Filter Media 

Cc: Dr. David A. Zumbrunnen 
 Dr. Bijan Seyfzadeh 
 Dr. Roger Ross 
 Dr. Tina Kravetz 
 Dr. John Buzinkai 
 Dr. Andy Ragoone 
 
The following attachment is a comprehensive work plan devised by our project members in order to explain the research objectives for the REU project: Discrete Numerical Modeling of Flow through Porous Filter Media. 

The main goal of this research project is to optimize the preexisting computer model of polymer flow through porous filter media by analyzing filter samples obtained from DuPont’s Chattanooga facilities in order to derive a particle size distribution function. This project will consist of the analysis of filter beds and mesh screens, the development of a particle size distribution function, and the development of a graphical user interface to model flow through porous filter media. This research project will enable the computer model to accurately predict the influence polymer flow has on rigid filtration media. 

We greatly appreciate the time you are taking out of your busy schedule to read and understand our work plan for this summer. We hope this work plan meets your expectations. 
 

Filtration is a necessary step in the production of polymer fibers and films. Impurities present in the final product have a negative effect on the polymer’s mechanical properties such as strength, toughness, and modulus.  Engineers utilize porous media to minimize the level of impurities present in an extruded product.  These impurities impede the melt flow through the porous media, thereby reducing production rates and increasing production expenses. 

The Center for Advanced Engineering Fibers and Films (CAEFF) is comprised of three main thrusts.  The main goal of Thrust One is the computer modeling of engineering phenomena.  The main goal of this research project is to optimize the computer model of polymer flow through porous filter media by analyzing filter samples obtained from DuPont’s Chattanooga facilities in order to derive a particle size distribution function.  The debris particles consist of copper and cross-linked Nylon 6.6 in gel form.  This program will provide an accurate prediction of the size distribution of suspended colloidal particles on the performance of a rigid filtration media. 
 

The subsequent lists of personnel and facilities are necessary for the completion of this research because they provide technical information and expert advice. 

Personnel 

• Julianna Camacho-- majoring in chemical engineering at the University of Puerto Rico Mayagüez Campus experienced in analytical laboratory techniques
• Jonathan O’Dwyer-- majoring in chemical engineering at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette experienced in project design 
• Nathan Smith-- high school student at Camden High School, Camden, SC experienced in computer technology 
• Brenteria Travis—a computer information science major with a minor in business administration at Mississippi Valley State University possesses experience in composing and manipulating computer programs using various computer languages
• Dr. David A. Zumbrunnen-- doctorate in mechanical engineering, academic advisor experienced in modeling of porous media
• Dr. Bijan Seyfzadeh-- research associate with a doctorate in chemical engineering from Louisiana State University specializes in polymer processing and rheology
• Dr. Roger Ross-- doctorate in mechanical engineering from University of Rochester, senior research fellow at DuPont in Chattanooga, TN, industrial advisor specializes in Nylon 6.6 processes 
• Dr. Tina Kravetz-- doctorate in organic chemistry from Ohio State University and senior research associate at DuPont in Chattanooga, TN will provide technical information 
• Dr. John Buzinkai-- doctorate in chemistry from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and research associate at DuPont in Chattanooga, TN
• David Kelley-- precision machinist who will section the filters

• Rhodes Hall-- computer facilities and main center for group collaboration 
• Fluor Daniel-- laboratory facilities used to analyze filter samples with optical microscope and ImagePro software
• Poole Agricultural Center-- laboratory facilities used to analyze gelated Nylon 6.6 particles with fluorescent light optical microscope

Ms. Camacho will analyze the filter samples acquired from DuPont using an optical microscope and ImagePro software.  Mr. O’Dwyer will develop a particle size distribution function for the computer model of polymer flow through rigid filtration media employing the data obtained from the analysis of the filter samples.  Mr. Smith will assist in the analysis of the filter samples and the development of the computer model graphical user interface.  Ms. Travis is developing the graphical user interface utilizing MATLAB software. 

Schedule 

Week 1: Orientation/ Method development 

Week 2: Prepare and submit work plans/ Method development 

Week 3: Attend progress report workshop/ Analyze filter samples/ Develop GUI 

Week 4: Prepare progress report/ Continue analyzing filter samples 
 
Week 5: Progress report presentation/ Continue analyzing filter samples 

Week 6: Poster workshop 

Week 7: Complete graphical user interface/ Develop particle size distribution function 

Week 8: Poster preparation 

Week 9: Prepare abstract and submit poster material 

Week 10: Poster presentation 
 

There are no major safety hazards in this particular research project.  However, general lab safety measures should be obeyed, such as appropriate dress, safety glasses, shoes, and lab coat. 
 

The main goal of the CAEFF’s First Thrust is the computer modeling of engineering phenomena.  This research project will optimize the preexisting computer model of polymer flow through porous filter media by analyzing filter samples obtained from DuPont’s Chattanooga facilities in order to derive a particle size distribution function. 

This research project will enable the computer model to accurately predict the influence polymer flow has on a rigid filtration medium.  With such predictions, engineers can optimize filtration processes, allowing industry to improve yarn quality and enhance process yield.  Production costs are reduced as a result of these process improvements.  This research project can be used as a basis for future attempts at developing a computer model to predict polymer melt flow through porous filter media.